The world of interlaced video

The first step in understanding video in general is to grasp the concepts of interlaced video and progressive video.

As far as we know the video we shot looked great. Something happens after you look at your export. Unfortunately tvs and computer monitors do not place nice. When recording in pal dv the refresh rate is determined by the camera or the input (A PAL signal sends 50 fields per second). The computer monitor is always at a variable rate between 60 & 85 Hz. So the 50 fps of your video – does not match well with the monitors refresh rate. This is one good case for de interlacing your video. Continue reading →

November 23, 2012 /  

The joy of DIY

For most people who are enthusiastic about video production it may not come as a shock to know that it is one of the most expensive fields to get into as an independent. Equipment is not cost effective at all as the rate of technology change and turnover is high. Continue reading →

November 9, 2012 /  

Mix it up!


Audio is more important than video. Imagine watching a movie where the video quality is a bit poor – with lines running through it, but the  sound quality was amazing.

You would watch it no problem. Small sacrifice. Now imagine the opposite. The picture is clear but the actors cannot be heard and there is a loud buzz in the audio. Press stop! No way! Audio plays a large part in any production. Continue reading →

October 19, 2012 /  

Simple tips on how to steady your camera… without a Steadicam!

Nowadays the differences between amateur and professional camera work can seem a bit “blurry”, pardon the pun! As audiences members we seem to be more accepting of many of the errors that years ago would be considered totally amateur. Yet there is one factor, that of the “steady shot” that makes the difference between say –  “Marcos making a home movie of his kids” and something more specific watchable and professional. It is one of the golden rules of shooting for the big screen. Keep it steady, or else, everybody gets seasick! So this applies to any anyone – shooting video at any time! Whether you are moving or trying to be still…keep reading! Continue reading →

October 12, 2012 /